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Smith IA, Templer PH, Hutyra LR. Water sources for street trees in mesic urban environments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 908:168411. [PMID: 37939949 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Street trees support climate resiliency through a variety of pathways, such as offsetting urban heat and attenuating storm water runoff. While urban trees in arid and semiarid ecosystems have been shown to take up water from irrigation, it is unknown where street trees in mesic cities obtain their water. In this study, we use natural abundance stable isotopes to estimate the proportional sources of water taken up by Acer platanoides street trees in Boston, Massachusetts, United States, including precipitation, irrigation, groundwater, and wastewater. We use Bayesian multisource mixing models to estimate water sources by comparing the natural abundance isotopic ratios of hydrogen and oxygen across potential water sources with water extracted from tree stem samples. We find that during the summer of 2021, characterized by anomalously high rainfall, street trees predominantly utilized water from precipitation. Precipitation accounted for 72.3 % of water extracted from trees sampled in August and 65.6 % from trees sampled in September. Of the precipitation taken up by street trees, most water was traced back to large storm events in July, with July rainfall alone accounting for up to 84.0 % of water found within street trees. We find strong relationships between canopy cover fractions and the proportion of precipitation lost to evapotranspiration across the study domain, supporting the conclusion that tree planting initiatives result in storm water mitigation benefits due to utilization of water from precipitation by urban vegetation. However, while the mature trees studied here currently support their water demand from precipitation, the dependency of street trees on precipitation in mesic cities may lead to increased water stress in a changing climate characterized by a higher frequency and severity of drought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian A Smith
- Boston University, Department of Earth & Environment, 685 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 02215, USA.
| | - Pamela H Templer
- Boston University, Department of Biology, 5 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Lucy R Hutyra
- Boston University, Department of Earth & Environment, 685 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 02215, USA
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Shirazipour CH, Raines C, Liu E, Ruggieri RM, Capaldi JM, Luna-Lupercio B, Diniz MA, Gresham G, Bhowmick N, Haile RW, Asher A. Benefits of nature-based walking for breast cancer survivors. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e071041. [PMID: 37328178 PMCID: PMC10277127 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-071041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Physical activity (PA) promotes significant physical and psychosocial benefits for breast cancer survivors. While evidence exists regarding recommendations for the frequency, duration and intensity of exercise that optimise PA benefits for cancer survivors, the role of the environment in achieving optimal outcomes has yet to be determined. This paper presents a protocol for a clinical trial to evaluate the feasibility of a 3-month nature-based walking programme for breast cancer survivors. Secondary outcomes assessed include the impact of the intervention on fitness, quality of life outcomes, and biomarkers of ageing and inflammation. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The trial is a 12-week single-arm pilot study. Twenty female breast cancer survivors will engage in a supervised moderate intensity walking intervention in small groups in a nature reserve for 50 minutes three times per week. Data will be collected at baseline and end of study, and include assessment of inflammatory cytokines and anti-inflammatory myokines (TNF-α, IL-1ß, IL-6, CRP, TGF-ß, IL-10, IL-13), as well as ageing (DNA methylation, ageing genes) biomarkers; surveys (Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-29, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General, Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory); and fitness assessments (6 min Walk Test, Grip-Strength, One Repetition-Maximum Leg Press). Participants will also complete weekly surveys assessing social support and participate in an exit interview. This is an important first step for future research on the influence of exercise environment on cancer survivor PA outcomes. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study was approved by the Cedars Sinai Medical Center Institutional Review Board (IIT2020-20). Findings will be disseminated through academic manuscripts, conferences, and community presentations. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04896580.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celina H Shirazipour
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Carolina Raines
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eileen Liu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Rachel M Ruggieri
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jessica M Capaldi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Bianca Luna-Lupercio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marcio A Diniz
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gillian Gresham
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Neil Bhowmick
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Robert W Haile
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Arash Asher
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Zhou TY, Yuan XM, Ma XJ. Can natural environments enhance acute effects of rehabilitation exercise for older adults? A pilot randomized controlled trial. Aging Clin Exp Res 2023; 35:1213-1219. [PMID: 37060534 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-023-02402-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
The added value of natural environments in rehabilitation exercise is unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether there are more acute health benefits for older adults after a single rehabilitation exercise session performed in an outdoor natural environment compared with an indoor environment. Twenty-two nursing home residents were randomly assigned to the outdoor (n = 11, 79.5 ± 2.1 years) or indoor group (n = 11, 78.8 ± 5.2 years). Performance test outcomes were measured pre- and post-training session. The indoor group had a significantly higher blood pressure, greater increase in heart rate, higher perceived exercise intensity and physiological fatigue than the outdoor group. The combination of rehabilitation exercise with an outdoor natural environment may reduce exercise fatigue and improve cardiovascular health in older adults, with greater acute health benefits compared with an indoor environment. Rehabilitation exercise in the natural environments may be a highly valued environmental intervention for physiotherapy in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong-Yue Zhou
- School of Architecture, State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Building Science, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 501640, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiao-Mei Yuan
- School of Architecture, State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Building Science, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 501640, Guangdong, China.
| | - Xiao-Jun Ma
- School of Physical Education, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 501640, Guangdong, China.
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Próchniak P, Próchniak A. Adventure Recreation in Blue Spaces and the Wellbeing of Young Polish Adults. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4472. [PMID: 36901483 PMCID: PMC10002021 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the wellbeing of 248 young Polish adults between 18 and 26 years old (M = 22.35; SD = 2.20) involved in adventure blue space recreational activities. The adventure water recreational activities were measured by using a questionnaire specially designed for the purpose of this study. This questionnaire consisted of two subscales: adventure recreation associated with water risks and adventure recreation associated with weather risks. In turn, wellbeing was measured using six scales loaded in two factors: hedonic wellbeing and eudaimonic wellbeing. The regression analysis indicated that wellbeing (hedonic and eudaimonic) was positively predicted by adventure recreation associated with water risks. In turn, eudaimonic wellbeing was negatively predicted by adventure recreation associated with weather risks. Additionally, the cluster analysis revealed three distinct clusters of recreationists characterized by diverse results on the scales of adventure recreation dealing with water and weather risks: soft adventurers (low water risks/high weather risks), hard adventurers (high water risks/high water risks) and avoiders (low water risks/low weather risks). The hard adventurers had significantly higher means on hedonic wellbeing than that of the soft adventurers and the avoiders. Surprisingly, the soft adventurers had a significantly lower mean on eudaimonic wellbeing than that of the group of hard adventurers and the group avoiding risky activity in an aquatic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Próchniak
- Institute of Psychology, University of Szczecin, 70-453 Szczecin, Poland
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Li H, Ding Y, Zhao B, Xu Y, Wei W. Effects of immersion in a simulated natural environment on stress reduction and emotional arousal: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Psychol 2023; 13:1058177. [PMID: 36698558 PMCID: PMC9869155 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1058177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although the mental health benefits of exposure to simulated natural environments are well established by researchers from environmental psychology, landscape architecture, and public health, it is unclear whether and to what extent technological immersion affects these benefits. Methods Systematical literature searches were conducted in May 2022 from six databases. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane's Risk of Bias tool 2.0 and the Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions tool. We performed a random-effects meta-regression to investigate the heterogeneity. The immersion levels of included studies were classified by projection devices and motion capture, and then subgroup analysis was conducted. Results Twenty-six publications were included. Exposure to simulated nature was confirmed to be associated with increased positive affect 0.40 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.22, 0.58], vigor 0.58 (95% CI: 0.30, 0.86), calmness 0.54 (95% CI: 0.17, 0.92) and decreased perceived stress -0.38 (95% CI: -0.71, -0.06), total mood disturbance -0.87 (95% CI: -1.17, -0.57), tension -0.70 (95% CI: -0.99, -0.41), fatigue -0.60 (95% CI: -0.91, -0.28), anxiety -0.72 (95% CI: -1.43, -0.02), depression -0.33 (95% CI: -0.52, -0.14), confusion -0.79 (95% CI: -1.19, -0.40), and anger -0.54 (95% CI: -0.76, -0.31). Gender, health status, study design, mean age, and single exposure duration were not significant when entered in a meta-regression. For positive affect, medium immersion was observed to produce a larger effect than low and high immersion. All included studies had a moderate to high risk of bias. Conclusion Audio-visual exposure to simulated nature contributes to stress relief and emotional arousal. The immersion level explains the heterogeneity of positive affect triggered by simulated nature. Focusing on the technical features will open up new possibilities for combining actual and simulated nature's mental health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyi Li
- The College of Landscape Architecture, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yujun Ding
- The College of Landscape Architecture, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bing Zhao
- The College of Landscape Architecture, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuhang Xu
- The College of Landscape Architecture, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Wei
- The College of Environmental Science, Nanjing Xiaozhuang University, Nanjing, China,*Correspondence: Wei Wei, ✉
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Litleskare S, Calogiuri G. Seasonal Variations in the Effectiveness of Immersive Virtual Nature. HERD-HEALTH ENVIRONMENTS RESEARCH & DESIGN JOURNAL 2023; 16:219-232. [PMID: 36154715 PMCID: PMC9755693 DOI: 10.1177/19375867221127420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to assess whether the outcomes of immersive virtual nature (IVN) varies between seasons. BACKGROUND IVN has received increased interest in recent years due to its potential applications within health and design. However, factors influencing people's responses to IVN are largely unknown. Seasons affect a variety of human processes and behaviors including levels of affect and blood pressure, also in the context of human-nature interactions. These seasonal variations might influence how people interact and respond to IVN, especially since IVN allow for representations of nature that are not representative of the current real-life season. METHODS A secondary analysis of data retrieved from two previous studies, which included three IVN conditions, was conducted. All IVNs represented late spring conditions. Measures included perceived environmental restorativeness, affect, enjoyment, heart rate, and blood pressure. A meta-analytic approach was used to assess whether there were consistent differences between participants who were exposed to the IVN in spring/summer (early June to mid-September) and autumn/winter (mid-September to December) across the three different conditions. RESULTS There was a consistent effect of season only for one component of affect (fatigue), with larger reductions in fatigue when exposed to IVN during autumn/winter compared to spring/summer. No other significant effects of season were observed. CONCLUSION IVNs are feasible to use across all seasons but might be more effective in reducing the feeling of fatigue during autumn and winter compared to other seasons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigbjørn Litleskare
- Department of Public Health and Sport Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway,Sigbjørn Litleskare, MSc, Høgskolen i Innlandet, Postboks 400, 2418 Elverum, Norway.
| | - Giovanna Calogiuri
- Department of Public Health and Sport Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway,Centre for Health and Technology, Department of Nursing and Health Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway, Drammen, Norway
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Bikomeye JC, Balza JS, Kwarteng JL, Beyer AM, Beyer KMM. The impact of greenspace or nature-based interventions on cardiovascular health or cancer-related outcomes: A systematic review of experimental studies. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276517. [PMID: 36417344 PMCID: PMC9683573 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE Globally, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer are leading causes of morbidity and mortality. While having different etiologies, CVD and cancer are linked by multiple shared risk factors, the presence of which exacerbate adverse outcomes for individuals with either disease. For both pathologies, factors such as poverty, lack of physical activity (PA), poor dietary intake, and climate change increase risk of adverse outcomes. Prior research has shown that greenspaces and other nature-based interventions (NBIs) contribute to improved health outcomes and climate change resilience. OBJECTIVE To summarize evidence on the impact of greenspaces or NBIs on cardiovascular health and/or cancer-related outcomes and identify knowledge gaps to inform future research. METHODS Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 and Peer Review of Electronic Search Strategies (PRESS) guidelines, we searched five databases: Web of Science, Scopus, Medline, PsycINFO and GreenFile. Two blinded reviewers used Rayyan AI and a predefined criteria for article inclusion and exclusion. The risk of bias was assessed using a modified version of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). This review is registered with PROSPERO, ID # CRD42021231619. RESULTS & DISCUSSION Of 2565 articles retrieved, 31 articles met the inclusion criteria, and overall had a low risk of bias. 26 articles studied cardiovascular related outcomes and 5 studied cancer-related outcomes. Interventions were coded into 4 categories: forest bathing, green exercise, gardening, and nature viewing. Outcomes included blood pressure (BP), cancer-related quality of life (QoL) and (more infrequently) biomarkers of CVD risk. Descriptions of findings are presented as well as visual presentations of trends across the findings using RAW graphs. Overall studies included have a low risk of bias; and alluvial chart trends indicated that NBIs may have beneficial effects on CVD and cancer-related outcomes. CONCLUSIONS & IMPLICATIONS (1) Clinical implication: Healthcare providers should consider the promotion of nature-based programs to improve health outcomes. (2) Policy implication: There is a need for investment in equitable greenspaces to improve health outcomes and build climate resilient neighborhoods. (3) Research or academic implication: Research partnerships with community-based organizations for a comprehensive study of benefits associated with NBIs should be encouraged to reduce health disparities and ensure intergenerational health equity. There is a need for investigation of the mechanisms by which NBIs impact CVD and exploration of the role of CVD biological markers of inflammation among cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean C. Bikomeye
- Division of Epidemiology & Social Sciences, PhD Program in Public and Community Health, Institute for Health & Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
| | - Joanna S. Balza
- Division of Epidemiology & Social Sciences, PhD Program in Public and Community Health, Institute for Health & Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
| | - Jamila L. Kwarteng
- Division of Community Health, Institute for Health & Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
- MCW Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
| | - Andreas M. Beyer
- MCW Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
| | - Kirsten M. M. Beyer
- Division of Epidemiology & Social Sciences, PhD Program in Public and Community Health, Institute for Health & Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
- MCW Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
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Litleskare S, Fröhlich F, Flaten OE, Haile A, Kjøs Johnsen SÅ, Calogiuri G. Taking real steps in virtual nature: a randomized blinded trial. VIRTUAL REALITY 2022; 26:1777-1793. [PMID: 35818369 PMCID: PMC9261150 DOI: 10.1007/s10055-022-00670-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Studies show that green exercise (i.e., physical activity in the presence of nature) can provide the synergistic psychophysiological benefits of both physical exercise and nature exposure. The present study aimed to investigate the extent to which virtual green exercise may extend these benefits to people that are unable to engage in active visits to natural environments, as well as to promote enhanced exercise behavior. After watching a video validated to elicit sadness, participants either performed a treadmill walk while exposed to one of two virtual conditions, which were created using different techniques (360° video or 3D model), or walked on a treadmill while facing a blank wall (control). Quantitative and qualitative data were collected in relation to three overarching themes: "Experience," "Physical engagement" and "Psychophysiological recovery." Compared to control, greater enjoyment was found in the 3D model, while lower walking speed was found in the 360° video. No significant differences among conditions were found with respect to heart rate, perceived exertion, or changes in blood pressure and affect. The analysis of qualitative data provided further understanding on the participants' perceptions and experiences. These findings indicate that 3D model-based virtual green exercise can provide some additional benefits compared to indoor exercise, while 360° video-based virtual green exercise may result in lower physical engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sigbjørn Litleskare
- Department of Public Health and Sport Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
| | - Fred Fröhlich
- Game School–Department of Game Development, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Hamar, Norway
| | - Ole Einar Flaten
- Game School–Department of Game Development, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Hamar, Norway
| | - Amelia Haile
- Department of Public Health and Sport Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
| | - Svein Åge Kjøs Johnsen
- Department of Psychology, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Lillehammer, Norway
| | - Giovanna Calogiuri
- Department of Public Health and Sport Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
- Department of Nursing and Health Sciences, Centre for Health and Technology, University of South-Eastern Norway, Drammen, Norway
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Brussoni M, Han CS, Lin Y, Jacob J, Munday F, Zeni M, Walters M, Oberle E. The Results of the OutsidePlay-ECE Study: Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate a Web-Based Intervention to Influence Early Childhood Educators’ Attitudes and Supportive Behaviors Toward Outdoor Play (Preprint). J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e36826. [PMID: 35687394 PMCID: PMC9233267 DOI: 10.2196/36826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Outdoor play is critical to children’s healthy development and well-being. Early learning and childcare centers (ELCCs) are important venues for increasing children’s outdoor play opportunities, and early childhood educators’ (ECE) perception of outdoor play can be a major barrier to outdoor play. The OutsidePlay-ECE risk-reframing intervention is a fully automated and open access web-based intervention to reframe ECEs’ perceptions of the importance of outdoor play and risk in play and to promote a change in their practice in supporting it in ELCC settings. We grounded the intervention in social cognitive theory and behavior change techniques. Objective The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the OutsidePlay-ECE web-based risk-reframing intervention. Methods We conducted a single-blind randomized controlled trial in Canada between December 2020 and June 2021 to test the OutsidePlay-ECE risk-reframing intervention for ECEs. We recruited participants using social media and mass emails through our partner and professional networks. We invited ECEs and administrators working in an ELCC, who can speak, read, and understand English. We randomized consented participants to the intervention or control condition. The participants allocated to the intervention condition received a link to the OutsidePlay-ECE intervention. Participants allocated to the control condition read the Position Statement on Active Outdoor Play, a 4-page document on research and recommendations for action in addressing barriers to outdoor play. The primary outcome was a change in tolerance of risk in play. The secondary outcome was goal attainment. We collected data on the web via REDCap (Vanderbilt University) at baseline and 1 week and 3 months after intervention. Results A total of 563 participants completed the baseline survey, which assessed their demographics and tolerance of risk in play. They were then randomized: 281 (49.9%) to the intervention and 282 (50.1%) to the control condition. Of these, 136 (48.4%) and 220 (78%) participants completed the baseline requirements for the intervention and control conditions, respectively. At 1 week after intervention, 126 (44.8%) and 209 (74.1%) participants completed follow-up assessments, respectively, and at 3 months after intervention, 119 (42.3%) and 195 (69.1%) participants completed the assessments, respectively. Compared with participants in the control condition, participants in the intervention group had significantly higher tolerance of risk in play at 1 week (β=.320; P=.001) and 3 months after intervention (β=.251; P=.009). Intention-to-treat analyses replicated these findings (β=.335; P<.001 and β=.271; P=.004, respectively). No significant intervention effect was found for goal attainment outcomes (odds ratio 1.124, 95% CI 0.335-3.774; P=.85). Conclusions The results of this randomized controlled trial demonstrated that the OutsidePlay-ECE intervention was effective and had a sustained effect in increasing ECEs’ and administrators’ tolerance of risk in play. It was not effective in increasing goal attainment. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04624932; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04624932 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/31041
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Brussoni
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- British Columbia Injury Research & Prevention Unit, British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Human Early Learning Partnership, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Christina S Han
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Yingyi Lin
- Spatial Sciences Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - John Jacob
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Fritha Munday
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Megan Zeni
- Faculty of Education, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Melanie Walters
- Child Care Services, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Eva Oberle
- Human Early Learning Partnership, School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Conserve My Village—Finnish, Norwegian and Swedish Students’ Valued Landscapes and Well-Being. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14020671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In the context of landscape, both the natural environment and the built environment can be linked with human health and well-being. This connection has been studied among adults, but no research has been conducted on young people. To fill this gap, this case study aimed to elucidate students’ views on landscapes worth conserving and the landscapes that affect and support their well-being. The participants (n = 538) were Finnish, Norwegian and Swedish students from grades 3–6. The students drew the landscapes they wanted to conserve. The drawn landscapes and the welfare-supporting features they contained were analysed using inductive and abductive content analyses. The students from all three countries preferred water, forest and yard landscapes. In the drawings of natural landscapes, the most recurring themes were sunrise or sunset, forest, beach and mountain landscapes. Physical well-being was manifested in the opportunity to jog and walk. Social well-being was reflected in the presence of friends, relatives and animals. Therapeutically important well-being-related spaces—the so-called green (natural areas), blue (aquatic environments) and white (e.g., snow) areas—were also depicted in the participants’ drawings. It can be concluded that the drawn landscapes reflect several values that promote students’ well-being.
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Brito HS, Carraça EV, Palmeira AL, Ferreira JP, Vleck V, Araújo D. Benefits to Performance and Well-Being of Nature-Based Exercise: A Critical Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:62-77. [PMID: 34919375 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c05151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Prior reviews point to the superior benefits of exercising in nature vs in conventional indoor venues, particularly in terms of well-being. However, physical exercise performance, neither in terms of efficacy nor efficiency, has not been sufficiently addressed by past reviews of this topic. Therefore, we conducted both a systematic review and meta-analysis of the experimental literature that relates to differences in exercise performance and well-being between exercising in nature and in conventional indoor venues. Forty-nine relevant studies─the outcome data of which were used for the systematic review─were located within the Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus databases. The meta-analyses, using data from twenty-four of the relevant studies, revealed no significant overall environmental effect on task performance efficacy outcomes (p = 0.100). For nature-based exercise, however, marginally positive cognitive performance outcomes (p = 0.059), lower ratings of perceived exhaustion (p = 0.001), and higher levels of vigor (p = 0.017) were observed, indicating higher performance efficiency. As for the effects of environment on well-being, positive affect was significantly higher for nature-based exercise (p = 0.000), while perceived stress was significantly higher for indoor exercise (p = 0.032). These results must, however, be interpreted with caution. High levels of bias and between-study heterogeneity were observed. Nonetheless, given several noticeable trends in the results, it may be that exercising in nature enhances the efficiency of exercise task performance to a greater extent than does indoor exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrique S Brito
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Cruz Quebrada - Dafundo, 1499-002, Lisbon Portugal
| | - Eliana V Carraça
- CIDEFES, Faculdade de Educação Física e Desporto, Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande, 1749-024, Lisbon Portugal
| | - António L Palmeira
- CIDEFES, Faculdade de Educação Física e Desporto, Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias, Campo Grande, 1749-024, Lisbon Portugal
| | - José P Ferreira
- CIDAF, Faculdade de Ciências do Desporto e Educação Física, Universidade de Coimbra, Estádio Universitário de Coimbra, 3040-248, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Veronica Vleck
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Cruz Quebrada - Dafundo, 1499-002, Lisbon Portugal
| | - Duarte Araújo
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Cruz Quebrada - Dafundo, 1499-002, Lisbon Portugal
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Clevenger KA, Belcher BR, Berrigan D. Associations between Amount of Recess, Physical Activity, and Cardiometabolic Traits in U.S. Children. TRANSLATIONAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SPORTS MEDICINE 2022; 7. [DOI: 10.1249/tjx.0000000000000202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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13
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Health and Wellbeing Benefits from Nature Experiences in Tropical Settings Depend on Strength of Connection to Nature. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph181910149. [PMID: 34639451 PMCID: PMC8507985 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph181910149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
A growing number of policies and programmes in cities aim to increase the time people spend in nature for the health and wellbeing benefits delivered by such interactions. Yet, there is little research investigating the extent to which, and for whom, nature experiences deliver such benefits outside Europe, North America, and Australia. Here, we assessed the relationships between nature dose (frequency, duration, and intensity) and three mental wellbeing (depression, stress, and anxiety) and two physical health (high blood pressure, diabetes) outcomes in Singapore, an intensely urbanised tropical city. Our analyses accounted for individual factors, including socio-economic status, nature connection (nature relatedness), and whether people with poor health are prevented by their condition from visiting green spaces. Our results show that the association between nature dose (specifically duration) and mental wellbeing is moderated by a nature connection. Specifically, people with a stronger nature connection were less likely to be depressed, stressed, and anxious, regardless of the duration of their nature dose. For those with a weaker connection to nature, spending longer in nature was associated with being more depressed, stressed, and anxious. We did not find a relationship between nature dose and high blood pressure or diabetes. Our results highlight that the relationship between nature dose and wellbeing might vary substantially among cities.
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Effects of Acute Beta-Alanine Ingestion and Immersion-Plus-Exercise on Connectedness to Nature and Perceived Pain. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18158134. [PMID: 34360425 PMCID: PMC8346088 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18158134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This double-blinded, placebo-controlled, crossover study examined the effect of induced painful sensation (via acute Beta Alanine (B-ALA) ingestion) on Love and Care of Nature (LCN), heart rate (HR), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) during outdoor exercise. Twenty participants volunteered on consecutive days to complete a 0.8 km (0.5 mi) up-hill hike after consuming either B-ALA (6.4 g) or placebo. Immediately after consumption participants answered LCN, RPE, and MPQ questionnaires, immersed in a natural environment for 45 min, and then completed a hike as quickly as possible without running. No difference in HR (p = 0.846), or RPE (p = 0.606) were observed between treatments. Total MPQ scores increased with consumption of B-ALA (p = 0.001). An increased LCN score was observed following exercise regardless of condition (p = 0.035). The results demonstrate that acute B-ALA supplementation is effective in increasing perceived pain sensations. The results also demonstrate an increase in LCN in the presence of increased perceptions of pain sensations during exercise.
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Subjective Proximity to Green Spaces and Blood Pressure in Children and Adolescents: The CASPIAN-V Study. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 2020:8886241. [PMID: 33381194 PMCID: PMC7748899 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8886241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Evidence favoring a beneficial association between greenness and blood pressure (BP) in adults is accumulating. However, children and adolescents have been understudied accordingly. Methodologically, the data on “exposure” to residential green spaces are commonly satellite-derived, including rare existing studies on the relationship between proximity to green spaces and BP in children. Despite perfectly obliterating subjective biases, remote sensing methods of greenness data collection fail to address pragmatic interaction with such settings. This study aimed to assess the relationship between subjective proximity to green spaces and average/elevated BP in children. Through our study, systolic and diastolic BPs of 12,340 schoolchildren living in CASPIAN-V study areas were examined and recorded. We performed surveys to obtain the data on their proximity to green spaces, defined as having access to such spaces within a 15-minute walk from their homes. Linear mixed-effects models with BP as the outcome variable and the measure of exposure to green spaces as fixed-effect predictor were applied. The analysis was adjusted for several covariates. We found that perceived residential proximity to green spaces was associated with −0.08 mmHg (95% confidence intervals (CIs): −0.58, 0.41; p value = 0.72) reduction in systolic BP and −0.09 (95% CIs: −0.49, 0.31; p value = 0.66) reduction in diastolic BP. We also observed statistically nonsignificant odds ratio of 1.03 (95% CIs: 0.76, 1.39), 0.96 (95% CIs: 0.80, 1.16), and 0.98 (95% CIs: 0.82, 1.16) for isolated systolic/diastolic hypertension and hypertension, respectively. Our observations remained consistent after adjustment for height, parental employment, low birth weight, parental obesity, single parent, and breastfeeding. In conclusion, subjective proximity to green spaces might not be associated with a lower mean BP in children. Well-designed studies applying both subjective and objective data should be performed to elaborate on the relationship further.
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Rocher M, Silva B, Cruz G, Bentes R, Lloret J, Inglés E. Benefits of Outdoor Sports in Blue Spaces. The Case of School Nautical Activities in Viana do Castelo. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17228470. [PMID: 33207658 PMCID: PMC7697647 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17228470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Participating in outdoor sports in blue spaces is recognized to produce a range of significant social benefits. This case study empirically analyzes the social benefits associated with the School Nautical Activities project carried out in Viana do Castelo (Portugal) in school-age children and adolescents. It consisted of a 4 year program in which scholars took part in nautical activities (surfing, rowing, sailing, and canoeing) in blue spaces once a week during a semester as a part of their physical education course. The methods used for data collection were as follows: (1) a survey answered by 595 participants in the program and (2) five focus groups (FG): two FGs with participants (seven on each FG), two FGs with their parents (eight participants each), and one FG with the physical education teachers (five participants). Interviews were transcribed and qualitative analysis with NVivo software was developed. Results revealed clear evidence on the social benefits for school-age children and adolescents associated with participation in outdoor activities in blue spaces both in the overall health and in all the following analyzed categories: mental health and well-being, education, active citizenship, social behavior, and environmental awareness. More than 40% state that their overall health is much better now (13.4%) or somewhat better now (29.9%) due to their participation in the program. Thus, this article provides support for the anecdotal recognition of the benefits for school-age children and adolescents from participating in sports in the outdoors and especially in blue spaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Míriam Rocher
- Institut Nacional d’Educació Física de Catalunya (INEFC), Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08038 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Bruno Silva
- Escola Superior de Desporto e Lazer de Melgaço, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo, 320 Melgaço, Portugal;
- Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health and Human Development (CIDESD), 5001–801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Surf Clube de Viana, 4935–161 Viana do Castelo, Portugal; (G.C.); (R.B.)
| | - Gonçalo Cruz
- Surf Clube de Viana, 4935–161 Viana do Castelo, Portugal; (G.C.); (R.B.)
- Surfing Viana High Performance Center, 4905–559 Viana do Castelo, Portugal
| | - Renato Bentes
- Surf Clube de Viana, 4935–161 Viana do Castelo, Portugal; (G.C.); (R.B.)
- Surfing Viana High Performance Center, 4905–559 Viana do Castelo, Portugal
| | - Josep Lloret
- Oceans and Human Health Chair, Institute of Aquatic Ecology, Universitat de Girona (UdG), 17003 Girona, Spain;
| | - Eduard Inglés
- Institut Nacional d’Educació Física de Catalunya (INEFC), Universitat de Barcelona (UB), 08038 Barcelona, Spain;
- Grup d’Investigació Social i Educativa de l’Activitat Física i l’Esport (GISEAFE, 2017 SGR 1162), Institut Nacional d’Educació Física de Catalunya (INEFC), 08038 Barcelona, Spain
- Correspondence:
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17
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Jimenez MP, Oken E, Gold DR, Luttmann-Gibson H, Requia WJ, Rifas-Shiman SL, Gingras V, Hivert MF, Rimm EB, James P. Early life exposure to green space and insulin resistance: An assessment from infancy to early adolescence. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2020; 142:105849. [PMID: 32593049 PMCID: PMC7784302 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.105849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies suggest that greater exposure to natural vegetation, or "green space" is associated with lower diabetes risk, possibly through increasing physical activity. However, there is limited research on green space and insulin resistance in youth. We hypothesized greater green space at early-life sensitive time periods would be associated with lower insulin resistance in youth. METHODS We used data from Project Viva (N = 460), a pre-birth cohort study that recruited pregnant women in eastern Massachusetts, 1999-2002, and followed offspring into adolescence. We defined residential green space exposure at infancy (median age - 1.1 years), early childhood (3.2 years), mid-childhood (7.7 years), and early adolescence (12.8 years), using 30 m resolution Landsat satellite imagery to estimate the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index [NDVI]. Our main outcome was early adolescence estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). We used multiple imputation to account for missing data and multiple linear regression models adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, parental education, household income, and neighborhood median household income. RESULTS The highest green space tertile had the highest percentage of white participants (85%), college-educated mothers (87%) and fathers (85%), and households with income higher than US$70,000 (86%). Unadjusted models showed that participants living in the highest green space tertile at infancy had a 0.15 unit lower HOMA-IR (95% CI: -0.23, -0.06) in early adolescence, than those living in the lowest tertile. However, in adjusted models, we did not observe evidence of associations between green space from infancy to early adolescence and HOMA-IR in early adolescence, although some point estimates were in the hypothesized direction. For example, participants in the highest green space tertile in infancy had 0.03 units lower HOMA-IR (95%CI: -0.14, 0.08) than those living in the lowest tertile. CONCLUSIONS Exposure to green space at early life sensitive time periods was not associated with HOMA-IR in youth. Early-life longitudinal studies across diverse populations are needed to confirm or refute our results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcia P Jimenez
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Emily Oken
- Division of Chronic Disease Research Across the Lifecourse, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Diane R Gold
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Heike Luttmann-Gibson
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Weeberb J Requia
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sheryl L Rifas-Shiman
- Division of Chronic Disease Research Across the Lifecourse, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Veronique Gingras
- Division of Chronic Disease Research Across the Lifecourse, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marie-France Hivert
- Division of Chronic Disease Research Across the Lifecourse, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eric B Rimm
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Peter James
- Division of Chronic Disease Research Across the Lifecourse, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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Prescribing Physical Activity in Parks and Nature: Health Care Provider Insights on Park Prescription Programs. J Phys Act Health 2020; 17:958-967. [PMID: 32866945 DOI: 10.1123/jpah.2019-0479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2019] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care providers (HCPs) promoting physical activity (PA) through programs such as Park Prescriptions (ParkRx) are gaining momentum. However, it is difficult to realize provider PA practices and program interest, and differences in program success exist by provider type (eg, primary vs secondary). This study explored HCPs' (1) PA counseling practices, (2) knowledge/interest in ParkRx, (3) barriers and resources needed to implement PA counseling and ParkRx programs, and (4) differences in primary versus secondary HCPs. METHODS An e-survey administered in Spring/Summer 2018 to HCPs in 3 states examined study objectives. RESULTS Respondents (n = 278) were mostly primary (58.3%) HCPs. The majority asked about patient PA habits and offered PA counseling (mean = 5.0, SD = 1.5; mean = 4.8, SD = 1.5), but few provided written prescriptions (mean = 2.5, SD = 1.6). Providers were satisfied with their PA counseling knowledge (mean = 3.8, SD = 1.0) but not with prescribing practices (mean = 3.2, SD = 1.1). Secondary HCPs placed higher importance (P = .012) and provided significantly more written PA prescriptions (P = .005). Time was a common barrier to prescribing PA (mean = 3.4, SD = 1.2), though more so for primary HCPs (P = .000). Although few HCPs knew about ParkRx programs, 81.6% expressed interest. Access to park information and community partnerships was an important resource for program implementation. CONCLUSIONS HCPs underutilize PA prescriptions. Despite little awareness, HCPs were interested in ParkRx programs.
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Guo LN, Zhao RL, Ren AH, Niu LX, Zhang YL. Stress Recovery of Campus Street Trees as Visual Stimuli on Graduate Students in Autumn. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 17:ijerph17010148. [PMID: 31878199 PMCID: PMC6982156 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17010148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human stress recovery response to landscapes is under discussion in Chinese settings. The present study aimed to clarify the stress recovery effects of campus street trees on graduate students in autumn. A total of 150 participants (23.75 ± 1.01 years old) completed the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) and were then randomly assigned to view one of five virtual environments, including the street trees Sophora japonica, Ginkgo biloba, Platanus acerifolia, Koelreuteria paniculata, and the indoor environment (control). Physiological responses were measured by R-R interval and electroencephalography (EEG). Psychological responses were examined through the state version of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S) and the Perceived Restorativeness Scale (PRS). Results showed that R-R intervals significantly increased while viewing all street trees. Both alpha and beta brainwave activities while viewing S. japonica and G. biloba were remarkably higher than those while viewing P. acerifolia and K. paniculata. The STAI-S scores significantly decreased, and the positive PRS scores were registered after viewing street trees. We concluded that a brief virtual visual experience of campus street trees in autumn has stress recovery effects on graduate students, and the different levels of stress recovery are associated with different types of street trees.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ai-Hua Ren
- College of Landscape Architecture and Arts, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Li-Xin Niu
- College of Landscape Architecture and Arts, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Yan-Long Zhang
- College of Landscape Architecture and Arts, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi 712100, China
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20
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Jo H, Song C, Miyazaki Y. Physiological Benefits of Viewing Nature: A Systematic Review of Indoor Experiments. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E4739. [PMID: 31783531 PMCID: PMC6926748 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16234739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Contact with nature has been proposed as a solution to achieve physiological relaxation and stress recovery, and a number of scientific verification outcomes have been shown. Compared with studies of the other senses, studies investigating the visual effects of nature have been at the forefront of this research field. A variety of physiological indicators adopted for use in indoor experiments have shown the benefits of viewing nature. In this systematic review, we examined current peer-reviewed articles regarding the physiological effects of visual stimulation from elements or representations of nature in an indoor setting. The articles were analyzed for their stimulation method, physiological measures applied, groups of participants, and outcomes. Thirty-seven articles presenting evidence of the physiological effects of viewing nature were selected. The majority of the studies that used display stimuli, such as photos, 3D images, virtual reality, and videos of natural landscapes, confirmed that viewing natural scenery led to more relaxed body responses than viewing the control. Studies that used real nature stimuli reported that visual contact with flowers, green plants, and wooden materials had positive effects on cerebral and autonomic nervous activities compared with the control. Accumulation of scientific evidence of the physiological relaxation associated with viewing elements of nature would be useful for preventive medicine, specifically nature therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunju Jo
- Center for Environment, Health, and Field Sciences, Chiba University, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan; (H.J.); (C.S.)
| | - Chorong Song
- Center for Environment, Health, and Field Sciences, Chiba University, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan; (H.J.); (C.S.)
- Department of Forest Resources, Kongju National University, Yesan-gun, Chungcheongnam-do 32439, Korea
| | - Yoshifumi Miyazaki
- Center for Environment, Health, and Field Sciences, Chiba University, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan; (H.J.); (C.S.)
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Akpınar A. Green Exercise: How Are Characteristics of Urban Green Spaces Associated with Adolescents' Physical Activity and Health? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E4281. [PMID: 31689997 PMCID: PMC6862485 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16214281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates associations between characteristics of urban green spaces (UGSs) and adolescents' self-reported green exercise (GE), general health, and body mass index (BMI). Data were collected through face-to-face personal interviews with 384 adolescents ages 13-19 between 1 March and 31 May, 2018 in UGSs in Aydın, Turkey. Multivariate regression analyses were conducted to examine associations controlling for confounding factors. Stratified analyses were also conducted to determine differences between boys and girls. Positive associations with the duration of GE included many trees, lawns, soccer fields and basketball courts, play equipment, and self-reported general health. Whereas increased BMI was associated with increased benches/ seating, lawns and exercise trails were positively associated with self-reported general health. Negative relationships with increased BMI included many trees, open areas, and outdoor fitness equipment. Increased distance from UGSs was negatively associated with the frequency of GE. In stratified analyses, positive associations between boys' duration of GE and self-reported general health were found. Whereas soccer fields and basketball courts were associated with girls' frequency of GE, exercise trails and play equipment were correlated with girls' self-reported general health. Negative associations with the boys' frequency of GE included increased BMI and screen time. Whereas increased distance from UGSs was negatively associated with girls' frequency of GE, many trees, lawns, exercise trails, play equipment, open areas, flowerbeds, and outdoor fitness equipment were negatively correlated with girls' increased BMI. Findings suggest that adolescents' GE and health could be promoted with many trees, lawns, flowerbeds, open areas, play and outdoor fitness equipment, exercise trails, and soccer fields and basketball courts. Findings of this study should be tested with longitudinal or intervention studies in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Akpınar
- Department of Landscape Architecture, Faculty of Agriculture, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Aydın 09100, Turkey.
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Mnich C, Weyland S, Jekauc D, Schipperijn J. Psychosocial and Physiological Health Outcomes of Green Exercise in Children and Adolescents-A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E4266. [PMID: 31684109 PMCID: PMC6862643 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16214266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Both physical activity (PA) and nature exposure are associated with several youth health benefits. However, the health outcomes when being physically active in nature, called Green Exercise (GE), are less clear. Thus, the purpose of this systematic review was to provide an overview of the psychosocial and physiological outcomes of GE in children and adolescents and to outline future GE research directions. The PRISMA statement guided the review. Web of Science, PubMed, ERIC, and APA PsychNET were systematically searched in February 2019, including studies between 2000 and 2019. Fourteen of 1175 identified publications were included, which reported 15 different psychosocial and six different physiological outcomes, with some studies reporting more than one outcome. For 16 outcomes, studies reported either similar or no effects for both GE and comparison groups. For six outcomes, studies reported stronger effects for GE, for three outcomes, studies reported stronger effects in the comparison group. Evidence was rated as weak, using the EPHPP tool. Thus, GE does not have deleterious effects for children and adolescents compared to PA in other settings. GE might be beneficial; however, due to the study's heterogeneity and quality, it is premature to make definite conclusions. Future research should build the quality of evidence for GE, use more rigorous research designs, and investigate the underlying effects and mechanisms of GE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Mnich
- Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe 76149, Germany.
| | - Susanne Weyland
- Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe 76149, Germany.
| | - Darko Jekauc
- Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe 76149, Germany.
| | - Jasper Schipperijn
- Department of Sport Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern, Odense 5230, Denmark.
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Acute Effects of Interrupting Prolonged Sitting With Intermittent Physical Activity on Blood Pressure in Preadolescent Children. Pediatr Exerc Sci 2019; 31:408-415. [PMID: 30849931 DOI: 10.1123/pes.2018-0224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the acute effects of intermittent physical activity (PA) across 4 different intensities on blood pressure. METHODS Thirty children (12 males and 18 females; aged 7-11 y; 33% overweight/obese; 53% nonwhite) completed 4 experimental conditions in random order: 8 hours sitting interrupted with 20, 2-minute low-, moderate-, high-intensity PA breaks, or sedentary screen-time breaks. PA intensity corresponded with 25%, 50%, and 75% of heart rate reserve. Blood pressure was measured during each condition in the morning (0800 h), noon (1200 h), and afternoon (1600 h). RESULTS There were no significant differences across conditions for systolic blood pressure (SBP; all Ps > .05). There was a significant effect of time with SBP decreasing throughout the day for all conditions (average morning SBP: 106 [1] mm Hg, average noon SBP: 101 [2] mm Hg, average afternoon SBP: 103 [1] mm Hg; P = .01). There were no significant effects of condition or time on diastolic blood pressure (all Ps > .05). CONCLUSION While sedentary behavior is known to be associated with hypertension in both adults and children, a single bout of prolonged sitting may be insufficient to produce hypertensive effects in otherwise healthy children. Future research should examine the appropriate dose of intermittent PA to accrue hypotensive responses in preadolescent children.
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Delgado-Floody P, Alvarez C, Caamaño-Navarrete F, Jerez-Mayorga D, Latorre-Román P. Influence of Mediterranean diet adherence, physical activity patterns, and weight status on cardiovascular response to cardiorespiratory fitness test in Chilean school children. Nutrition 2019; 71:110621. [PMID: 31874334 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2019.110621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine the association between Mediterranean diet adherence, physical activity (PA) patterns (i.e., screen time and PA after school), and weight status with the cardiovascular response following a cardiorespiratory fitness test. METHODS Participants were 605 school children: 272 girls (11.79 ± 0.93 y old) and 333 boys (12.06 ± 1.03 y old). Body mass index, waist circumference (WC), food habits, and PA patterns were evaluated. Heart rate (HR), and systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressures were assessed before and immediately after the 20-m shuttle run test and the changes induced were calculated (Δ = post/pretest). RESULTS The cardiovascular response was higher in obese than normal weight and overweight children in terms of HR (P = 0.007) and SBP (P < 0.001). The ΔSBP presented inverse association with WC (β = -0.09; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.17 to -0.01; P = 0.026), food habits (β = -0.65; 95% CI, -0.81 to -0.49; P < 0.001), PA after school (β = -7.03; 95% CI, -7.84 to -6.22; P < 0.001) and PA patterns (β = -5.96; 95% CI, -6.40 to -5.52, P < 0.001). ΔDBP was not associated with food habits or PA patterns (P > 0.005). Finally, ΔHR reported inverse association with PA patterns (β = -1.67; 95% CI, -3.18 to -0.17; P = 0.029). CONCLUSION School children with obesity showed a higher cardiovascular response in HR and SBP than normal weight and overweight peers. Moreover, the increment of the SBP presented inverse association with food habits and PA patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Delgado-Floody
- Department of Physical Education, Sport and Recreation, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.
| | - Cristian Alvarez
- Quality of Life and Wellness Research Group, Department of Physical Activity Sciences, Unniverisidad de Los Lagos, Osorno, Chile
| | - Felipe Caamaño-Navarrete
- Physical Education Pedagogy, Faculty of Education, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Temuco, Chile
| | | | - Pedro Latorre-Román
- Department of Didactics of Corporal Expression, Universidad de Jaén, Jaén, Spain
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Haegele JA, Zhu X, Wilson PB, Kirk TN, Davis S. Physical activity, nutrition, and psychological well-being among youth with visual impairments and their siblings. Disabil Rehabil 2019; 43:1420-1428. [PMID: 31537130 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2019.1666926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The primary purpose of this study was to examine physical activity, nutritional intake, and psychological well-being differences between youth with visual impairments and their siblings residing in the same household. A secondary purpose was to examine the relationship between physical activity behavior and psychological well-being among youth with visual impairments. MATERIALS AND METHODS A sample of 22 dyads of youth with visual impairments and siblings completed this study. Data were collected through parent-reported demographic and psychological well-being questionnaires, nutritional intake questionnaires, and accelerometry. Data were analyzed descriptively and inferentially, examining proportion difference using McNemar's z-test, and mean differences using multivariate analyses of variance. RESULTS Siblings without visual impairments had higher but not significantly higher daily average moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (d = 0.46), significantly higher prosocial score (d = 0.63), and lower but not significantly lower difficulty scores (d = 0.39), than youth with visual impairments. Small, not statistically significant, nutritional intake differences between siblings were found. CONCLUSIONS Differences in physical activity and nutritional habits between those with visual impairments and their siblings were not significant, supporting the environmentally driven nature of these variables. Associations between physical activity and well-being were not apparent in this study but may be partially explained by low participant physical activity.Implications for RehabilitationYouth with visual impairments and the siblings may be influenced by the same familial factors and molded in a similar fashion by parenting behaviors regarding health-related behaviors.In this study, youth with visual impairments engaged in similar physical activity and nutritional behaviors to their siblings without visual impairments.Efforts to improve health-related behaviors among those with visual impairments may be most effective at the family level.Small subsets of youth with visual impairments gain mental health benefits from physical activity engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin A Haegele
- Department of Human Movement Science, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Xihe Zhu
- Department of Human Movement Science, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Patrick B Wilson
- Department of Human Movement Science, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - T N Kirk
- School of Kinesiology at University of MIchigan
| | - Summer Davis
- Department of Human Movement Science, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
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Glover N, Polley S. GOING GREEN: The Effectiveness of a 40-Day Green Exercise Intervention for Insufficiently Active Adults. Sports (Basel) 2019; 7:sports7060142. [PMID: 31200463 PMCID: PMC6628432 DOI: 10.3390/sports7060142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing physical activity and reducing sedentary behavior is an economic and health priority. This Green Exercise (GEx) study reports on a 40-day physical activity intervention to increase physical activity that primarily used outdoor recreation activities. Adherence, compliance, blood pressure (BP), total cholesterol, anthropometry, strength, dynamic stability, and cardiovascular fitness were assessed 1 week prior and immediately following the 40-day intervention. The results then were compared with a larger study that used the same methodologies but for the exception of primarily indoor physical activities. Results from this study showed similar improvements in health measures to the comparative indoor-based physical activity program with increased adherence and compliance. Improvements in wellbeing were also noted. This GEx study suggests that exercise programs that seek to increase physical activity levels of insufficiently active adults may benefit from including outdoor recreation activities within the program and may also increase participant mental health and general well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Glover
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide 5001, Australia.
| | - Scott Polley
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), School of Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide 5001, Australia.
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Huber D, Grafetstätter C, Proßegger J, Pichler C, Wöll E, Fischer M, Dürl M, Geiersperger K, Höcketstaller M, Frischhut S, Ritter M, Hartl A. Green exercise and mg-ca-SO 4 thermal balneotherapy for the treatment of non-specific chronic low back pain: a randomized controlled clinical trial. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2019; 20:221. [PMID: 31096958 PMCID: PMC6524239 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-019-2582-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-specific chronic low back pain (nscLBP) has a high socio-economic relevance due to its high incidence, prevalence and associated costs. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate effective therapeutic strategies. This study examines the effects of moderate mountain exercise and spa therapy on orthopedic and psychophysiological parameters. Based on a three-armed randomized controlled trial, guided mountain hiking tours and balneotherapy in thermal water were compared to a control group. METHODS Eighty patients with diagnosed nscLBP were separated into three groups: The two intervention groups GE (green exercise) and GEBT (green exercise and balneotherapy) undertook daily mountain hiking tours, whereas the GEBT group got an additional treatment with baths in Mg-Ca-SO4 thermal water. The third group (CO) received no intervention. GE and GEBT group were treated for 6 days; all groups were followed up for 120 days. RESULTS Compared to GE and CO group, the GEBT treatment showed significant improvements of pain, some orthopedic parameters, health-related quality of life and mental well-being in patients with nscLBP. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study confirmed a benefit of mountain hiking combined with Mg-Ca-SO4 spa therapy as a multimodal treatment of patients with nscLBP. Further studies should focus on long-term-effects of this therapeutic approach. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN, ISRCTN99926592 . Registered 06. July 2018 - Retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Huber
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020, Salzburg, Austria.,Department of Physiotherapy, Salzburg University of Applied Science, 5412, Puch/Urstein, Austria
| | - Carina Grafetstätter
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Johanna Proßegger
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christina Pichler
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Ewald Wöll
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Orthopedics, General Public Hospital St. Vinzenz, 6511, Zams, Austria
| | - Martin Fischer
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Orthopedics, General Public Hospital St. Vinzenz, 6511, Zams, Austria
| | - Martin Dürl
- Department of Physiotherapy, Salzburg University of Applied Science, 5412, Puch/Urstein, Austria
| | - Karin Geiersperger
- Department of Physiotherapy, Salzburg University of Applied Science, 5412, Puch/Urstein, Austria
| | - Melanie Höcketstaller
- Department of Physiotherapy, Salzburg University of Applied Science, 5412, Puch/Urstein, Austria
| | - Stefan Frischhut
- Ordination Dr. Stefan Frischhut MSc., Maximilianstr. 2, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Markus Ritter
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020, Salzburg, Austria.,Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Department for Radon Therapy Research, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Arnulf Hartl
- Institute of Ecomedicine, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020, Salzburg, Austria.
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Jabot F, Gall ARL. [Can health impact assessment influence policies relating to green spaces in urban areas?]. SANTE PUBLIQUE (VANDOEUVRE-LES-NANCY, FRANCE) 2019; S1:207-217. [PMID: 31210481 DOI: 10.3917/spub.190.0207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Growing urbanisation in the last decades and the increase in population density have significantly contributed to lessening contacts between people and nature. In response to this phenomenon, the consideration given to the role played by nature in urban environments has increased uninterruptedly, supported by the social demand for a greener urban environment. Health impact assessment is an approach aimed at anticipating the consequences of policies, projects or laws on health, prior to their implementation, and offering suggestions for readjustments that limit negative impacts and reinforce positive ones. It has been developing in France since 2010 mostly in connection with urban planning projects in which green space development is an important feature. This article examines HIA's capacity to influence urban planning choices and policies to make them greener, fairer and more beneficial to health.
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Lahart I, Darcy P, Gidlow C, Calogiuri G. The Effects of Green Exercise on Physical and Mental Wellbeing: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16081352. [PMID: 30991724 PMCID: PMC6518264 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16081352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to examine the evidence for the proposed additive effect of exercise in the presence of nature (green exercise) by systematically reviewing studies that investigated the effects of outdoor or virtual green exercise compared with indoor exercise. Our review updates an earlier review, whose searches were conducted in April 2010. Trials were eligible if: (a) participants in an outdoor or virtual exercise condition were exposed to views of nature (green exercise); (b) green exercise was compared with indoor exercise with no exposure to nature; (c) included an outcome related to physical or mental health; (d) used comparative or crossover trial design. We searched the following databases from 1st January 2010 to 28th June 2018: PubMed, CENTRAL, EMBASE, PsycINFO, GreenFile, and Sports DISCUS. We assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane “risk of bias” tool. Where possible we conducted a meta-analysis using the inverse variance random-effects method, and where this approach was not possible we presented the results qualitatively and in harvest plots. We identified 28 eligible trials. In a meta-analysis of just three longitudinal trials, the only statistical finding was slightly lower post-intervention perceived exertion with green versus indoor exercise (mean difference: −1.02; 95% confidence intervals: −1.88, −0.16). Compared with indoor exercise, acute bouts of outdoor green exercise may favorably influence affective valence and enjoyment, but not emotion, perceived exertion, exercise intensity, and biological markers. No other consistent statistical differences were observed, apart from a higher enjoyment of outdoor green versus virtual green exercise. We found a high risk of bias across trials and an overall low quality of evidence. In conclusion, there was limited evidence to support the view that green exercise offers superior benefits to exercise without exposure to nature. The low quality of evidence prohibits clear interpretation of trial findings. Future robust and rigorously designed trials are needed to evaluate the effects of long-term and multiple-bout exposure to nature during exercise compared with exercise indoors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Lahart
- Faculty of Education Health & Wellbeing, University of Wolverhampton, Walsall WS1 3BD, UK.
| | - Patricia Darcy
- Centre for Health and Development, Staffordshire University, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 2DF, UK.
| | - Christopher Gidlow
- Centre for Health and Development, Staffordshire University, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 2DF, UK.
| | - Giovanna Calogiuri
- Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Postboks 400 2418 Elverum, Norway.
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Eigenschenk B, Thomann A, McClure M, Davies L, Gregory M, Dettweiler U, Inglés E. Benefits of Outdoor Sports for Society. A Systematic Literature Review and Reflections on Evidence. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16060937. [PMID: 30875938 PMCID: PMC6466442 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16060937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The combination of physical activity and being in nature is recognized as providing a range of significant benefits. The objective of this literature review was to compile an overview of the social benefits and costs associated with outdoor sports within the academic literature and to reflect on the quality of underlying evidence that supports the relationship. A systematic review was carried out with seven partners from different European countries, including Bulgaria, France, Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, Portugal, and Spain. From a total of 17,560 studies identified, 133 studies were selected with relevant data extracted to standardized forms. The selected studies have been analyzed with qualitative research methods. A meta-analysis could not be conducted due to the heterogeneity of the study designs and outcome measures. As a result, the review gives an overview of the social impacts associated with outdoor sports which have been clustered to six broad categories: physical health, mental health and wellbeing, education and lifelong learning, active citizenship, crime reduction, and anti-social behavior, as well as additional benefits. The review furthermore revealed gaps in the evidence base which are especially notable in the long-term effects that outdoor sports can have on personal and social development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Eigenschenk
- TUM Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University Munich, Georg-Brauchle-Ring 60/62, 80992 München, Germany.
| | - Andreas Thomann
- TUM Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University Munich, Georg-Brauchle-Ring 60/62, 80992 München, Germany.
| | - Mike McClure
- Sport Northern Ireland, c/o Tollymore National Outdoor Centre, 32 Hilltown Road, Bryansford, Newcastle BT33 0PZ, UK.
| | - Larissa Davies
- Sport Industry Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield S10 2BP, UK.
| | - Maxine Gregory
- Sport Industry Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield S10 2BP, UK.
| | - Ulrich Dettweiler
- Universitetet i Stavanger, Kjell Arholms gate 41, 4021 Stavanger, Norway.
| | - Eduard Inglés
- National Institute of Physical Education of Catalonia (INEFC), University of Barcelona (UB), Av. Estadi 12-22, 08038 Barcelona, Spain.
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Budzynski-Seymour E, Wade M, Lawson R, Lucas A, Steele J. Heart rate, energy expenditure, and affective responses from children participating in trampoline park sessions compared with traditional extra-curricular sports clubs. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2019; 59:1747-1755. [PMID: 30722655 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.18.09351-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lack of physical activity (PA) is becoming an issue in younger populations. Trampoline parks are newly popular environments for PA yet research on their use is scarce. Thus the present study compared heart rate, energy expenditure, and affective responses in children participating in trampoline park sessions compared with extracurricular sports clubs. METHODS Children (aged 6-11 years; N.=16 females, N.=10 males) participated in 3 trampoline park sessions and 3 extracurricular sports club sessions lasting ~45 minutes over 3 weeks. Heart rate, energy expenditure, and affective responses through the circumplex model, were measured. RESULTS Both conditions elicited moderate-vigorous PA. Average heart rate (mean difference [95%CIs]=27.6 fc [23.5 to 31.8]), peak heart rate (mean difference [95%CIs]=24.2 fc [20.8 to 27.6]) and energy expenditure (mean difference [95%CIs]=3.2 kcals.min-1 [2.7 to 3.6]) were all significantly higher for the trampoline sessions. Affective responses for both conditions elicited feelings of "excitement." CONCLUSIONS Both extracurricular sports clubs and trampoline park activities provide moderate-vigorous PA, though the latter may result in higher heart rate and energy expenditure responses. Both however produce similar positive affective responses. As such, both could be valuable options for PA opportunities for children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - James Steele
- Solent University, Southampton, UK - .,ukactive Research Institute, London, UK
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Bang KS, Kim S, Song MK, Kang KI, Jeong Y. The Effects of a Health Promotion Program Using Urban Forests and Nursing Student Mentors on the Perceived and Psychological Health of Elementary School Children in Vulnerable Populations. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15091977. [PMID: 30208583 PMCID: PMC6163462 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15091977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
As problems relating to children's health increase, forest therapy has been proposed as an alternative. This study examined the effects of a combined health promotion program, using urban forests and nursing student mentors, on the perceived and psychosocial health of upper-grade elementary students. The quasi-experimental study ran from June to August 2017, with 52 upper-grade elementary students from five community after-school centers. With a purposive sampling, they were assigned to either an experimental group (n = 24), who received a 10-session health promotion program, or to a control group (n = 28). Seven undergraduate nursing students participated as mentors. Running over 10 weeks, each weekly session consisted of 30 min of health education and 60 min of urban forest activities. Data were analyzed by independent t-test, Mann-Whitney U-test, paired t-test, or Wilcoxon signed rank test. General characteristics and outcome variables of both groups were homogeneous. The experimental group showed significant improvement in self-esteem (p = 0.030) and a significant decrease in depressive symptoms (p = 0.020) after the intervention, compared to the control group. These results suggest that forest healing programs may contribute to the spread of health promotion programs that make use of nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung-Sook Bang
- Faculty of College of Nursing, The Research Institute of Nursing Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Korea.
| | - Sungjae Kim
- Faculty of College of Nursing, The Research Institute of Nursing Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Korea.
| | - Min Kyung Song
- College of Nursing, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Korea.
| | - Kyung Im Kang
- College of Nursing, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Korea.
| | - Yeaseul Jeong
- College of Nursing, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Korea.
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Acute Effect of Intermittent Exercise and Action-Based Video Game Breaks on Math Performance in Preadolescent Children. Pediatr Exerc Sci 2018; 30:326-334. [PMID: 29485933 DOI: 10.1123/pes.2017-0183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to compare the acute effects of video game breaks and intermittent exercise breaks, performed at varying intensities, on math performance in preadolescent children. METHODS A total of 39 children (18 males and 21 females; aged 7-11 y) completed 4 experimental conditions in random order: 8 hours of sitting interrupted with 20 two-minute low-, moderate-, or high-intensity exercise breaks or 20 two-minute sedentary computer game breaks. The intensity of exercise breaks for the low-, moderate-, and high-intensity conditions corresponded with 25%, 50%, and 75% of heart rate reserve, respectively. Math performance was assessed 3 times throughout each condition day using a 90-second math test consisting of 40 single-digit addition and subtraction questions. RESULTS There were no significant differences in percent change in math scores (correct answers out of attempted) by condition [low: -1.3 (0.8), moderate: 0.1 (1.3), high: -1.8 (0.7), and computer: -2.5 (0.8); P > .05]. There were significant differences in percent change in math scores over the course of the condition days with lower math scores reported at end-of-day test compared with midday test [-2.4 (0.5) vs -0.4 (0.3); P = .01]. There were no significant condition × time, time × age, condition × age, or condition × time × age interactions (all Ps > .05). CONCLUSION Action-based video game and exercise breaks elicit the same level of math performance in children; however, time of day may impact this relationship. These findings may have important implications for instructional time in elementary classrooms.
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Ajibewa TA, O’Sullivan MP, Nagy MR, Block SS, Robinson LE, Colabianchi N, Hasson RE. The effects of interrupting prolonged sitting with intermittent activity on appetite sensations and subsequent food intake in preadolescent children. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0188986. [PMID: 29287061 PMCID: PMC5747427 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Short-term and long-term exposure to prolonged sitting is associated with excess food intake and weight gain in children. Interrupting prolonged sitting with low-intensity activity has been shown to not alter hunger, satiety, or food consumption in children, however it is unclear whether interrupting sitting with high-intensity activity will alter appetite regulation in children. Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the acute effects of interrupting prolonged sitting with intermittent activity performed at varying intensities on hunger, satiety, prospective food consumption (PFC), and food intake in preadolescent children. Methods Thirty-nine children (ages 7–11 years, 54% female, 33% overweight/obese) completed four experimental conditions in random order: 8 hours of sitting interrupted with 20, 2-minute low-, moderate-, or high-intensity activity breaks or 20, 2-minute sedentary screen time breaks. Exercise intensity corresponded with 25%, 50% and 75% of heart rate reserve, respectively. Hunger, satiety, and PFC were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale, at five time points (pre- and post-breakfast, pre- and post-lunch, and pre-dinner) during each experimental condition. Dietary compensation was assessed as total caloric intake during a post-condition dinner standardized to provide 70% of estimated daily energy requirements. Results There was a significant effect of time on hunger, satiety, and PFC throughout each condition day (p< 0.001). There were no differences across conditions for hunger (sedentary: 4.9±0.3 cm, low: 5.0±0.3 cm, moderate: 5.1±0.3 cm, high: 5.1±0.3 cm, p>0.05), satiety (sedentary: 4.7±0.3 cm, low: 4.4±0.3 cm, moderate: 4.6±0.3 cm, high: 4.2±0.3 cm, p>0.05), and PFC (sedentary: 4.9±0.3 cm, low: 4.7±0.3 cm, moderate: 4.9±0.3 cm, high: 5.0±0.3 cm, p>0.05). There were no significant differences in post-activity food intake across conditions (sedentary: 1071.9±53.6 kcals; low: 1092.6±43.4kcals; moderate: 996.2±54.6kcals; high: 1138.7±62.8kcals, p>0.05). However, there was a significant effect of condition on energy balance (sedentary: +61.4±65.9 kcals, low: +74.9±57.6 kcals, moderate: -58.3±62.8 kcals, high: -391.2±77.9 kcals; p<0.001). There were no significant effects of weight status on hunger, satiety, PFC, post-activity food intake, and mean energy balance across conditions (all p’s>0.05). Conclusions Interrupting prolonged sitting with physical activity of any intensity does not alter appetite sensations and subsequent food consumption in children. These data suggest that interventions targeting prolonged sitting with high-intensity intermittent activity may be an effective strategy to increase physical activity energy expenditure without increasing food intake, allowing for a short-term energy deficit in both healthy weight and overweight/obese children. Future studies should examine the long-term effects of interrupting prolonged sitting with activity on food consumption and weight status in preadolescent children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiwaloluwa A. Ajibewa
- University of Michigan School of Kinesiology, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
- University of Michigan Childhood Disparities Research Laboratory, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Molly P. O’Sullivan
- University of Michigan School of Kinesiology, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
- University of Michigan Childhood Disparities Research Laboratory, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Matthew R. Nagy
- University of Michigan School of Kinesiology, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
- University of Michigan Childhood Disparities Research Laboratory, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Shannon S. Block
- University of Michigan Childhood Disparities Research Laboratory, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Leah E. Robinson
- University of Michigan School of Kinesiology, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Natalie Colabianchi
- University of Michigan School of Kinesiology, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Rebecca E. Hasson
- University of Michigan School of Kinesiology, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
- University of Michigan Childhood Disparities Research Laboratory, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Gabrielsen LE, Harper NJ. The role of wilderness therapy for adolescents in the face of global trends of urbanization and technification. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADOLESCENCE AND YOUTH 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/02673843.2017.1406379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Leiv Einar Gabrielsen
- Department for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Sorlandet Hospital Health Enterprise, Kristiansand, Norway
| | - Nevin J. Harper
- School of Child & Youth Care, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
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Lim C, Donovan AM, Harper NJ, Naylor PJ. Nature Elements and Fundamental Motor Skill Development Opportunities at Five Elementary School Districts in British Columbia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14101279. [PMID: 29064430 PMCID: PMC5664779 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14101279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The majority of Canadian children are not physically active enough for healthy development. School playgrounds are a primary location to promote physical activity and motor skill practice. The benefits of children’s play in nature have also been highlighted, but few studies have evaluated children’s access and exposure to nature for play on school grounds. This study examined children’s access to nature on school grounds and the opportunities afforded by those natural elements for motor skill practice. Results: Extensive naturescapes (multiple nature elements in one setting) were not common, and natural elements were limited, ranging from 1.97 to 5.71 elements/school. The most common element was a forested area (26.5% of all natural elements identified). In comparison to built structures, the number of natural elements was low. Some elements differed between school districts and appeared to be related to local geography and terrain (hilly, rocky terrain, tidal flats, etc.). Our assessment showed that naturescape elements afforded opportunities for the development of some key fundamental motor skills (FMS), specifically, locomotor and stability skills, but opportunities to develop manipulative skills were limited. To maximize potential FMS development, physical literacy, and psycho-social benefits, additional elements or more comprehensive multi-element naturescapes and facilitation (social or environmental) are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Lim
- School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education, University of Victoria, P.O. Box 1700 STN CSC, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada.
| | - Andrew M Donovan
- School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education, University of Victoria, P.O. Box 1700 STN CSC, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada.
| | - Nevin J Harper
- School of Child & Youth Care, Human and Social Development, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada.
| | - Patti-Jean Naylor
- School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education, University of Victoria, P.O. Box 1700 STN CSC, Victoria, BC V8W 2Y2, Canada.
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Markevych I, Schoierer J, Hartig T, Chudnovsky A, Hystad P, Dzhambov AM, de Vries S, Triguero-Mas M, Brauer M, Nieuwenhuijsen MJ, Lupp G, Richardson EA, Astell-Burt T, Dimitrova D, Feng X, Sadeh M, Standl M, Heinrich J, Fuertes E. Exploring pathways linking greenspace to health: Theoretical and methodological guidance. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 158:301-317. [PMID: 28672128 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 997] [Impact Index Per Article: 142.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Revised: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In a rapidly urbanizing world, many people have little contact with natural environments, which may affect health and well-being. Existing reviews generally conclude that residential greenspace is beneficial to health. However, the processes generating these benefits and how they can be best promoted remain unclear. OBJECTIVES During an Expert Workshop held in September 2016, the evidence linking greenspace and health was reviewed from a transdisciplinary standpoint, with a particular focus on potential underlying biopsychosocial pathways and how these can be explored and organized to support policy-relevant population health research. DISCUSSIONS Potential pathways linking greenspace to health are here presented in three domains, which emphasize three general functions of greenspace: reducing harm (e.g. reducing exposure to air pollution, noise and heat), restoring capacities (e.g. attention restoration and physiological stress recovery) and building capacities (e.g. encouraging physical activity and facilitating social cohesion). Interrelations between among the three domains are also noted. Among several recommendations, future studies should: use greenspace and behavioural measures that are relevant to hypothesized pathways; include assessment of presence, access and use of greenspace; use longitudinal, interventional and (quasi)experimental study designs to assess causation; and include low and middle income countries given their absence in the existing literature. Cultural, climatic, geographic and other contextual factors also need further consideration. CONCLUSIONS While the existing evidence affirms beneficial impacts of greenspace on health, much remains to be learned about the specific pathways and functional form of such relationships, and how these may vary by context, population groups and health outcomes. This Report provides guidance for further epidemiological research with the goal of creating new evidence upon which to develop policy recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iana Markevych
- Institute for Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Munich, Germany; Institute of Epidemiology I, Helmholtz Zentrum München - German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Julia Schoierer
- Institute for Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Terry Hartig
- Institute for Housing and Urban Research, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Alexandra Chudnovsky
- AIRO Lab, Department of Geography and Human Environment, School of Geosciences, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Perry Hystad
- College of Public Health and Human Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Angel M Dzhambov
- Department of Hygiene and Ecomedicine, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Sjerp de Vries
- Wageningen University & Research, Environmental Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Margarita Triguero-Mas
- ISGlobal, Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Michael Brauer
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mark J Nieuwenhuijsen
- ISGlobal, Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gerd Lupp
- Strategic Landscape Planning and Management, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Elizabeth A Richardson
- Centre for Research on Environment, Society and Health (CRESH), University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Thomas Astell-Burt
- Population Wellbeing and Environment Research Lab (PowerLab), Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia; Early Start, University of Wollongong, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Donka Dimitrova
- Department of Health Management and Healthcare Economics, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Xiaoqi Feng
- Population Wellbeing and Environment Research Lab (PowerLab), Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia; Early Start, University of Wollongong, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Maya Sadeh
- School of Public Health, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Marie Standl
- Institute of Epidemiology I, Helmholtz Zentrum München - German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Joachim Heinrich
- Institute for Occupational, Social, and Environmental Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Munich, Germany; Institute of Epidemiology I, Helmholtz Zentrum München - German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Elaine Fuertes
- ISGlobal, Centre for Research in Environmental Epidemiology (CREAL), Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Barcelona, Spain
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Frumkin H, Bratman GN, Breslow SJ, Cochran B, Kahn PH, Lawler JJ, Levin PS, Tandon PS, Varanasi U, Wolf KL, Wood SA. Nature Contact and Human Health: A Research Agenda. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2017; 125:075001. [PMID: 28796634 PMCID: PMC5744722 DOI: 10.1289/ehp1663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 411] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Revised: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND At a time of increasing disconnectedness from nature, scientific interest in the potential health benefits of nature contact has grown. Research in recent decades has yielded substantial evidence, but large gaps remain in our understanding. OBJECTIVES We propose a research agenda on nature contact and health, identifying principal domains of research and key questions that, if answered, would provide the basis for evidence-based public health interventions. DISCUSSION We identify research questions in seven domains: a) mechanistic biomedical studies; b) exposure science; c) epidemiology of health benefits; d) diversity and equity considerations; e) technological nature; f) economic and policy studies; and g) implementation science. CONCLUSIONS Nature contact may offer a range of human health benefits. Although much evidence is already available, much remains unknown. A robust research effort, guided by a focus on key unanswered questions, has the potential to yield high-impact, consequential public health insights. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP1663.
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Affiliation(s)
- Howard Frumkin
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Gregory N Bratman
- Center for Conservation Biology, Stanford University , Stanford, California, USA
- Center for Creative Conservation, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington, USA
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Sara Jo Breslow
- Center for Creative Conservation, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Peter H Kahn
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Joshua J Lawler
- Center for Creative Conservation, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington, USA
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Phillip S Levin
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington, USA
- The Nature Conservancy , Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Pooja S Tandon
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine , Seattle, Washington, USA
- Seattle Children's Hospital , Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Usha Varanasi
- School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kathleen L Wolf
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington, USA
- Pacific Northwest Research Station , USDA Forest Service , Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Spencer A Wood
- Center for Creative Conservation, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington, USA
- School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington, USA
- The Natural Capital Project , Stanford University , Stanford, California, USA
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Physical and Emotional Benefits of Different Exercise Environments Designed for Treadmill Running. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14070752. [PMID: 28696384 PMCID: PMC5551190 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14070752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Revised: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
(1) Background: Green physical activity promotes physical health and mental wellbeing and interesting questions concern effects of this information on designing indoor exercise environments. This study examined the physical and emotional effects of different nature-based environments designed for indoor treadmill running; (2) Methods: In a counterbalanced experimental design, 30 participants performed three, twenty-minute treadmill runs at a self-selected pace while viewing either a static nature image, a dynamic nature image or self-selected entertainment. Distance ran, heart rate (HR) and five pre-and post-exercise emotional states were measured; (3) Results: Participants ran farther, and with higher HRs, with self-selected entertainment compared to the two nature-based environment designs. Participants attained lowered anger, dejection, anxiety and increased excitement post exercise in all of the designed environments. Happiness increased during the two nature-based environment designs compared with self-selected entertainment; (4) Conclusions: Self-selected entertainment encouraged greater physical performances whereas running in nature-based exercise environments elicited greater happiness immediately after running.
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Lee JE, Xiang P, Gao Z. Acute effect of active video games on older children's mood change. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2016.12.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Ahmadian M, Dabidi Roshan V, Ashourpore E. Taurine Supplementation Improves Functional Capacity, Myocardial Oxygen Consumption, and Electrical Activity in Heart Failure. J Diet Suppl 2017; 14:422-432. [DOI: 10.1080/19390211.2016.1267059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Ahmadian
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Aliabad Katoul Branch, Islamic Azad University, Aliabad Katoul, Iran
| | - Valiollah Dabidi Roshan
- Department of Sport Physiology, College of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Mazandaran, Mazandaran, Iran
| | - Eadeh Ashourpore
- Department of Sport Physiology, College of Humanities, Sari Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sari, Iran
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Guannel G, Arkema K, Ruggiero P, Verutes G. The Power of Three: Coral Reefs, Seagrasses and Mangroves Protect Coastal Regions and Increase Their Resilience. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0158094. [PMID: 27409584 PMCID: PMC4943730 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0158094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural habitats have the ability to protect coastal communities against the impacts of waves and storms, yet it is unclear how different habitats complement each other to reduce those impacts. Here, we investigate the individual and combined coastal protection services supplied by live corals on reefs, seagrass meadows, and mangrove forests during both non-storm and storm conditions, and under present and future sea-level conditions. Using idealized profiles of fringing and barrier reefs, we quantify the services supplied by these habitats using various metrics of inundation and erosion. We find that, together, live corals, seagrasses, and mangroves supply more protection services than any individual habitat or any combination of two habitats. Specifically, we find that, while mangroves are the most effective at protecting the coast under non-storm and storm conditions, live corals and seagrasses also moderate the impact of waves and storms, thereby further reducing the vulnerability of coastal regions. Also, in addition to structural differences, the amount of service supplied by habitats in our analysis is highly dependent on the geomorphic setting, habitat location and forcing conditions: live corals in the fringing reef profile supply more protection services than seagrasses; seagrasses in the barrier reef profile supply more protection services than live corals; and seagrasses, in our simulations, can even compensate for the long-term degradation of the barrier reef. Results of this study demonstrate the importance of taking integrated and place-based approaches when quantifying and managing for the coastal protection services supplied by ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg Guannel
- The Natural Capital Project, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Katie Arkema
- The Natural Capital Project, Stanford University, c/o School of Environmental and Forest Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States of America
| | - Peter Ruggiero
- College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States of America
| | - Gregory Verutes
- The Natural Capital Project, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
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43
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Robinson S, Hardcastle SJ. Exploring the attitudes towards and experiences of geocaching amongst families in the community. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2015; 26:187-197. [PMID: 26169290 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2015.1061116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
There is a need for physical activity interventions to focus on autonomous forms of motivation to increase uptake and maintenance. Geocaching is a GPS-based treasure-hunt game with potential to increase levels of walking. The study aim was to explore the experiences of a geocaching intervention for people introduced to geocaching. A five-week geocaching intervention took place. Participants (n = 30) were recruited via school assemblies and village posters. Semi-structured telephone interviews (n = 21) were conducted post intervention to determine the participants' motives, barriers and experiences of geocaching. Geocaching motivators (social activity, challenge/discovery) and barriers (lack of time, problems with mobile technology and unsuccessful trips) were identified. Findings suggest that geocaching is a feasible activity to promote physical activity, particularly among families. Further robust and larger scale trials are required that target sedentary individuals, adopting strategies to reduce perceived barriers to geocaching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelagh Robinson
- a School of Sport and Service Management , University of Brighton , Eastbourne , UK
| | - Sarah J Hardcastle
- b Health Psychology and Behavioural Medicine Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Psychology and Speech Pathology , Curtin University , Perth , Australia
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Tremblay MS, Gray C, Babcock S, Barnes J, Costas Bradstreet C, Carr D, Chabot G, Choquette L, Chorney D, Collyer C, Herrington S, Janson K, Janssen I, Larouche R, Pickett W, Power M, Sandseter EBH, Simon B, Brussoni M. Position Statement on Active Outdoor Play. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:6475-505. [PMID: 26062040 PMCID: PMC4483712 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120606475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Revised: 05/22/2015] [Accepted: 05/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A diverse, cross-sectorial group of partners, stakeholders and researchers, collaborated to develop an evidence-informed Position Statement on active outdoor play for children aged 3–12 years. The Position Statement was created in response to practitioner, academic, legal, insurance and public debate, dialogue and disagreement on the relative benefits and harms of active (including risky) outdoor play. The Position Statement development process was informed by two systematic reviews, a critical appraisal of the current literature and existing position statements, engagement of research experts (N = 9) and cross-sectorial individuals/organizations (N = 17), and an extensive stakeholder consultation process (N = 1908). More than 95% of the stakeholders consulted strongly agreed or somewhat agreed with the Position Statement; 14/17 participating individuals/organizations endorsed it; and over 1000 additional individuals and organizations requested their name be listed as a supporter. The final Position Statement on Active Outdoor Play states: “Access to active play in nature and outdoors—with its risks— is essential for healthy child development. We recommend increasing children’s opportunities for self-directed play outdoors in all settings—at home, at school, in child care, the community and nature.” The full Position Statement provides context for the statement, evidence supporting it, and a series of recommendations to increase active outdoor play opportunities to promote healthy child development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S. Tremblay
- Healthy Active Living and Obesity Research Group, Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 8L1, Canada; E-Mails: casgray@cheo,on.ca (C.G.); (J.B.); (R.L.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 8L1, Canada
- School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, 125 University Private, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 1A2, Canada
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +1-613-737-7600; Fax: +1-613-738-4800
| | - Casey Gray
- Healthy Active Living and Obesity Research Group, Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 8L1, Canada; E-Mails: casgray@cheo,on.ca (C.G.); (J.B.); (R.L.)
| | - Shawna Babcock
- KidActive, 559A, Burtron Lane, Combermere, Ontario, K0J 1L0, Canada; E-Mail:
| | - Joel Barnes
- Healthy Active Living and Obesity Research Group, Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 8L1, Canada; E-Mails: casgray@cheo,on.ca (C.G.); (J.B.); (R.L.)
| | | | - Dawn Carr
- Canadian Parks Council, 455 Hunter Street West, Peterborough, Ontario, K9H 2M7, Canada; E-Mail:
| | - Guylaine Chabot
- Evaluation Platform on Obesity Prevention, Quebec Heart and Lung Research Institute, Laval University, 2725 Chemin Ste-Foy, Québec City, Québec, G1V 4G5, Canada; E-Mail:
| | - Louise Choquette
- Best Start Resource Centre—Health Nexus, 180 Dundas Street West, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1Z8, Canada; E-Mail:
| | - David Chorney
- PHE Canada, 301-2197 Riverside Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 7X3, Canada; E-Mail:
| | - Cam Collyer
- Evergreen, 550 Bayview Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M4W 3X8, Canada; E-Mail:
| | - Susan Herrington
- School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture, University of British Columbia, 379-2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, B6T 1Z4, Canada; E-Mail:
| | - Katherine Janson
- ParticipACTION, 77 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1M2, Canada; E-Mails: (C.C.B.); (K.J.)
| | - Ian Janssen
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen’s University, 99 University Avenue, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 2P5, Canada; E-Mail:
| | - Richard Larouche
- Healthy Active Living and Obesity Research Group, Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 8L1, Canada; E-Mails: casgray@cheo,on.ca (C.G.); (J.B.); (R.L.)
| | - William Pickett
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Carruthers Hall, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 2P5, Canada; E-Mail:
| | - Marlene Power
- Forest School Canada, Child and Nature Alliance of Canada, 411 Corkstown Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K2K 2Y1, Canada; E-Mail:
| | - Ellen Beate Hansen Sandseter
- Department of Physical Education and Health, College of Early Childhood Education, Queen Maud University, Thrond Nergaardsvei 7, NO-7044 Trondheim, Norway; E-Mail:
| | - Brenda Simon
- PLAYbynature, 226 Albany Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M5R 3C6, Canada; E-Mail:
| | - Mariana Brussoni
- British Columbia Injury Research & Prevention Unit, Department of Pediatrics, School of Population & Public Health, Child & Family Research Institute, British Columbia Children’s Hospital, University of British Columbia, , F511-4480 Oak Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6H 3V4, Canada; E-Mail:
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James P, Banay RF, Hart JE, Laden F. A Review of the Health Benefits of Greenness. CURR EPIDEMIOL REP 2015; 2:131-142. [PMID: 26185745 DOI: 10.1007/s40471-015-0043-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 500] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Researchers are increasingly exploring how neighborhood greenness, or vegetation, may affect health behaviors and outcomes. Greenness may influence health by promoting physical activity and social contact; decreasing stress; and mitigating air pollution, noise, and heat exposure. Greenness is generally measured using satellite-based vegetation indices or land-use databases linked to participants' addresses. In this review, we found fairly strong evidence for a positive association between greenness and physical activity, and a less consistent negative association between greenness and body weight. Research suggests greenness is protective against adverse mental health outcomes, cardiovascular disease, and mortality, though most studies were limited by cross-sectional or ecological design. There is consistent evidence that greenness exposure during pregnancy is positively associated with birth weight, though findings for other birth outcomes are less conclusive. Future research should follow subjects prospectively, differentiate between greenness quantity and quality, and identify mediators and effect modifiers of greenness-health associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter James
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health 401 Park Dr 3 Floor West Boston, MA 02215
| | - Rachel F Banay
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health 401 Park Dr 3 Floor West Boston, MA 02215
| | - Jaime E Hart
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health 401 Park Dr 3 Floor West Boston, MA 02215
| | - Francine Laden
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School 401 Park Dr 3 Floor West Boston, MA 02215
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